Pornic’s fame comes from its charming seashore and natural beauty. On the Brittany Marches (a line of fortresses between the Duchy of Brittany and the Kingdom of France), at the limit of Vendee, Pornic lies in the heart of the Retz region, facing the island of Noirmoutier. Only 50km from Nantes, Pornic is located on the beautiful jade coast, and is a very popular tourist destination, particularly in August. The southern most traditional port of Brittany, Pornic will delight those in search of authenticity.

Thanks to the fishing port, marina, casino, Thalassotherapy Centre and Golf Club, Pornic displays the assets of its prestigious past.

Opening out onto the vast Baie de Bourgneuf, Pornic is also an ideal site for sailing and regattas. Staff at the dynamic Nautical club will be delighted to teach you the basics of sailing, windsurfing, sea kayaking or rowing.

The castle overlooking the medieval city and it's side streets, stairs, covered market places and chapels, is the quintessential image of this resort which is listed as a historical place. Founded around the time when thermal baths and sea-bathing had gained immense popularity, Pornic is made even more attractive through the sumptuous seaside villas erected along the coast. The “Grande Epoque” atmosphere is ever present, even in modern times.

The chalet-villas have stood the test of time, and appear in their entire splendour. At the sea front where the old customs patrol path once was, there is now renewed use for it as a walkway, attracting great numbers of visitors who appreciate the landscape, with the light orange coloured sand beaches, and the astonishing fishing huts. Staying in Pornic is a way to stop time, and enjoy simple pleasures.

Visitors can also spend their weekend exploring the 15km of Pornic coastline, with its fifteen beaches and orange-tinted sandy creeks, eating seafood (the area is famous for its mussels and fries), or by taking a tourist train around the centre of Pornic before browsing the typical markets and shops.

Highlights

The coastal roads and the beaches: Visitors can either take a walk on the corniche de Noëveillard, which starts from the castle or on the corniche of Gourmalon, on the other side of the port.

The castle and the old town: This historic medieval castle set right in the city centre has become a symbol of the town.

Alliance Pornic: This Hotel-Restaurant-Thalassothérapy centre is recognized internationally. Located on the cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean, the setting is exceptional, and a wide range of treatments are offered at the indoor Thalassotherapy centre.